Inflammatory markers are commonly used in clinic to diagnose and monitor inflammatory conditions, including C-reactive protein (CRP), PCT, IL6, etc. Besides, these inflammatory markers are often used in the fields of atherosclerosis, heart failure, rheumatoid, chronic obstructive pneumonia, tumor prognosis and so on. Clinicians often detect multiple inflammatory markers at the same time, which is of great help to improve the accuracy of disease diagnosis.
Clinical Significance
Quantitative determination of hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-Reactive Protein) in human serum and plasma (EDTA, heparin or sodium citrate)
CRP is an annular (ring-shaped), pentameric protein found in blood plasma, whose levels rise in response to inflammation. CRP was elevated in 60.7% of COVID-19 patients.
Quantitative determination of PCT (Procalcitonin) in human serum and plasma (heparin, EDTA)
Procalcitonin (PCT) is a precursor of the hormone calcitonin, which is involved with calcium homeostasis, and is produced by the C-cells of the thyroid gland. The level of procalcitonin rises in a response to a proinflammatory stimulus, especially of severe infections. Increased procalcitonin values were associated with a nearly 5-fold higher risk of severe infection.
Quantitative determination of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in human serum and plasma (EDTA) IL-6 is a pleiotropic cytokine with central roles in immune regulation, inflammation, hematopoiesis, and oncogenesis. Elevated levels of IL-6 are significantly associated with sepsis, septic shock and cytokine storm which are severe complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection.